Chapter Three

IT WAS DARK still, and at first Jack wasn’t sure what had woken him from such a deep sleep. He lay there, planning to go back to sleep, but then he heard it, a tiny, distressed meow from outside the window. Worried a cat had been caught in the fence, or injured somehow, he instantly got out of bed and rushed to the back door.

Jack opened the door, and right there on the doorstep was a cat, demanding to be let in. The cat was jet black and small, maybe only a few months old. As soon as the door opened, it began winding around Jack’s legs. Its meow changed, sounded happier somehow.

“Hello, kitty. Who do you belong to?” Jack asked as he reached down and stroked the cat. It had no collar. “Well, guess I’m gonna have to take you to the vet and get you scanned, see if you have a chip. Are you thirsty, hungry?” Jack knew the cat couldn’t reply. It did try though, meowing in response to his questions.

Jack turned to the sink to get a dish of water. As it was a hot night, the cat could probably use it. The cat followed him and almost got stepped on when Jack jumped backward. Aaden leaned in the kitchen doorway, his shirt rumpled.

“I didn’t mean to scare you,” he said. “I heard you talking. I’d fallen asleep watching TV. We don’t have it in my dimension. I forget how compelling it is. You found a cat?”

Jack tried to shake off his nerves. He went back to getting the cat water. “You didn’t scare me, more surprised me. I’m okay with the silent sneaky thing you do, but if you’re around Kris, please make noise. We, ah, both have PTSD, but Kris gets bothered by people sneaking up on him. He’s better than he was, but yeah. And the cat was at that back door. I’ll look for its owner in the morning, but if I can get it to stay the night, I will, just to keep it safe,” he rambled while he put down the water.

The cat happily drank the water as if it hadn’t had anything in a long time.

“I’ll be careful with your brother. Is there anything I should do not to trigger your PTSD?” Aaden looked concerned, his eyes softer somehow.

Once the cat had finished drinking, it came back to rub against Jack’s legs, now purring a little.

“Thank you. Um, I’m just mostly just not good with boats and big bodies of water, and loved ones being out of contact, so nothing you can control.” Jack got a tray and some paper from the trash and put it down. The cat remained his shadow throughout.

“I think you’ve already found that cat’s owner.” Aaden chuckled as the cat pawed at Jack’s leg.

“What do you mean?” Jack reached down and picked up the young cat. It settled against his chest, once again purring.

“I think it was a stray, and now it’s yours.”

“I’d love a cat, but the food, vets, everything… I can’t afford that.” Jack felt terrible. He would love to have kept the bundle of smooth fur in his arms.

Aaden crossed the distance between them, and with care in his movements, reached out to touch the cat’s head. It butted Aaden’s palm affectionately, and the soft smile it produced from Aaden was breathtaking. Jack hadn’t thought of demons liking animals.

“I’ll pay for her. She can be our pet for now, and I’m sure your brother will want to help you out once he has money,” Aaden offered.

“Are you sure?” Jack didn’t want to get his hopes up. He’d never had a pet before, but this cat felt natural in his arms, its fur soft against his bare chest.

“I like cats. They have real personality. No bullshit, unlike a lot of the people I deal with.” Aaden stroked the top of the small cat’s head. He was close to Jack in the large space, the cat cradled between them, and Jack was so curious about this demon he allowed himself a question.

“Do people lie to you a lot?” He felt soothed by the cat purring against his chest.

“Demons, angels, humans, always full of lies. It’s exhausting, really. Worked out for you though. I was so desperate to be in this world with honesty that I gave you a good deal,” Aaden admitted.

“I did think things went easier for me than maybe they should have. Not going to say I’m not glad, because I am. I was prepared to do anything for my brother, but I like that I’ll be here and happy to see Kris be successful and his kid grow up. But I feel a little bad that all you get is my company in the human world,” Jack said honestly.

“Don’t sell yourself short, or your world. I like the human world. It has people like you and your brother, who will do anything for each other out of love. I like that. I also like the food. My dimension doesn’t have sugar.” Aaden sounded disgusted at the end.

“No sugar? So, no candy, ice cream, or cake with sugar in it? Do you have anything sweet to eat?” Jack was surprised. He’d been imagining the demon world as quite like his, since Aaden looked mostly human, but maybe it had differences, ones that made Aaden prefer the human realm.

“We don’t even have honey or any substitutes. Most of our fruit is bitter too. First time I had a soda, I almost thought I was dying. I’d never felt like that.” Aaden chuckled slightly.

“A hyperactive demon, now that’d be something to see.” Jack wanted to bite his tongue at how flirtatious his words came out sounding.

“The human world has many delights.” Aaden was clearly amused.

“Um, do we have food? Like canned fish or something? I want to see if our new friend is hungry,” Jack said, to change the subject.

“Kitchen is fully stocked. I might have a soda now. Want one?” Aaden asked, moving away from Jack and the cat.

“No, thank you. I hope to sleep after this.” Jack put the cat down, and it remained his shadow as he checked the cupboards until he found some canned salmon.

“I should actually go to bed, but I always feel unsettled when I first come to earth to stay. The energy is different here, and while I’m on contract, I don’t hear the calls of summoners.” Aaden took a bottle of soda out of the fridge, and when he took a drink, it was like something out of an advertisement, only the sexy man was in a kitchen with him while he mashed up fish in a bowl.

“So, this is like a vacation for you?” Jack asked, trying to act as if he wasn’t checking out Aaden and wondering what he looked like under his shirt.

“Kind of, yeah. So just treat me like you would a friend visiting, if you can. I understand I’m a stranger, and a demon, to boot. But I promise I won’t harm you and I won’t let anyone else harm you while I’m here,” Aaden told him gently, and Jack believed him. He was one hundred percent sure that it was within Aaden’s power to keep his word, and that he planned to do so.

“Is it weird to feel so safe with a demon?” Jack asked, looking away when Aaden drank again, pretending that watching the cat eat was more fascinating. Poor thing did seem hungry, eating faster than Jack did after a full shift with no breaks.

“You’re really not used to trusting yourself, are you, witch? You have great power in you. You always have. You just have to trust yourself. Your instincts, have they ever led you on the wrong path before?” Aaden sounded so sure.

“I guess not. Not when I listen to them. But how do I… How can I be sure trusting you, treating you like a friend, is the right thing to do?” Jack was aware that Aaden could lie to him but knew Kim Joy had been sure he could trust a balance demon.

“Come here.” Aaden didn’t quite order, but Jack’s body responded as if he had, flushing hot and his feet moving before he could think it through. “Put your hand on my chest.”

Once Jack was close enough, he reached out and placed his palm flat on Aaden’s chest. He felt firm muscle and warmth through the material. “Now what?”

“Open your senses, almost like you’re trying to meditate. Look for energy. Close your eyes if that helps,” Aaden encouraged.

Jack closed his eyes, hoping that would hide the desire he feared was in his eyes. He focused, trying his best to clear his mind. He searched for energy, then he saw it behind Aaden’s eyes, a purple light. It was beautiful and felt familiar. Unthinking, Jack reached out in his mind and touched it. He felt a surge of what he thought must be magic in his body. He heard Aaden gasp, then a thud. Jack opened his eyes, and Aaden was on his knees, looking pale. Panic rose but he stayed calm, somehow, and released the energy he’d grabbed on to. He instantly saw Aaden shake himself.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry. What did I do?” Jack asked. Panic had sunk in a little now he was himself again, and he helped Aaden onto one of the kitchen chairs. The cat came over and rubbed against his legs. Aaden stroked it, his eyes a brilliant, inhuman purple, before answering.

“I meant you to find the magic in me. I put my guard down. But I hadn’t counted on you drawing energy from me. Not many can do that.” Aaden watched him with those beautiful, glowing eyes.

“I didn’t mean to. I didn’t even know I could.” Jack leaned close to Aaden, afraid he was going to pass out, but also afraid Aaden would be mad at him. It hadn’t been long at all, but he liked Aaden, felt they could be friends. So even if the deal wasn’t at risk, he didn’t want to lose the possibility of Aaden’s friendship either.

“Calm yourself, little witch. I could feel your magic, and your intent. You were curious. You found the essence of my magic beautiful. I know you wanted to feel it, not steal it. If I thought you’d done it on purpose, you’d already be dead,” Aaden said casually as he straightened up in the chair. He was so close. Jack couldn’t help feeling overwhelmed—he’d never crushed this hard on another person. Just his luck it was on someone who’d be returning to another dimension in three months.

“The fact you could kill me doesn’t help me feel calm,” Jack admitted.

“Sorry. Don’t worry, Jack. I have no plans to kill you. One, breaking my own deal would cause a world of trouble with the demon council, and two, I think you could be fun to have around.” Aaden patted his arm in reassurance, and Jack’s skin tingled from the contact.

“Demon council?” Jack repeated.

“Politics and royalty mixed. They rule over demons, make sure things aren’t too chaotic; put a few rules in place. What you’d think of as a minister or governor runs the balance demons, and he is very creative if any of us step out of line. Demons really put their all into the phrase a fate worse than death.”

“Wow.” Jack was unsure how he felt about the sound of that. He wanted to know more, but he also needed sleep. “Will you teach me more about the demon world? Not tonight, but soon?”

“I guess it can’t hurt to share a little of my world with you. There is no rule against it, anyway. I should sleep too. I tend to sleep through alarms, so do me a favor and wake me up for a late breakfast?” Aaden asked, standing up. His arm brushed against Jack, who straightened up too. The touch made Jack jittery with excitement.

“I’ll wake you, sure. Night.”

Aaden smiled faintly, his eyes still purple, and Jack wondered if Aaden had even realized they’d changed. They went their separate ways to their bedrooms, but Jack didn’t go entirely alone. He was followed by the black cat. When he got into bed, the cat jumped up and started kneading the blankets.

“Well, if we’re going to sleep together, I feel like I should know your name,” Jack said to his new companion. He would ask around, in case it wasn’t a stray, but he had a feeling he’d soon be buying cat food, a real litter tray, and cat toys.

The cat meowed at him as if agreeing.

“What’s your name, huh?” Jack looked at the cat on his bed, a dark shape lit up by the moon outside the window. “How about Moon?” he asked and got a purr in answer. “Okay, Moon it is. Night, Moon.”

Jack got comfortable, but it was a long time before he fell asleep. He kept thinking about Aaden, and what he’d done, almost stealing energy from a demon. He hadn’t known that was possible, but then lately he’d learned a lot of things he’d once thought were fantasy were, in fact, as real as anything else in his life.

But despite his thoughts, finally sleep claimed him.

*

THE FIRST THING Jack did when he woke up was to take Moon to the kitchen for a drink and more food. While she ate, he started preparing banana pancakes. He then remembered what Aaden had said about waking him up and headed to his room. He knocked on the closed door.

“Come in,” Aaden called, sounding a little muffled. Jack hesitated but opened the door.

Aaden was pulling a shirt over his head, and Jack got a good look at his chest. There were lots of marks, both brands and tattoos, all over, like he’d made countless deals with demons and angels.

“You make deals?” Jack blurted out.

Aaden finished pulling his shirt on and smoothed it over his perfectly muscular chest.

“Of course. In my dimension it is how we live. Every interaction leads to a deal.”

“That sounds stressful,” Jack said, leaning against the doorframe and trying not to be too nosy. He was curious about whether Aaden’s room would be different, but from what Jack saw in the seconds he took his eyes off Aaden, it looked like a human’s room—a tidy human.

“It is. I prefer talking to people here, where talking can just be about talking, not about trying to get someone to owe you.” Aaden sounded a little weary.

“I’m sorry. Not everything should be about what you can get out of it. I made the batter for banana pancakes, and we have syrup. No strings attached to that. Come eat with me and don’t worry about deals for a while.” Jack remembered Aaden saying angels’ brands hurt. He had at least three that Jack had seen if he was right that there were brands among the tattoo-like marks. They resembled the brands ranchers used on animals, but more mystical, and Jack wondered what Aaden had wanted that badly. He resolved to stop treating Aaden like a demon, but like a man, a friend, for the rest of their three months together.

“Thank you. That sounds wonderful. How did you sleep?” Aaden asked as they walked toward the kitchen where Moon meowed in greeting.

“Better than at my apartment, honestly. I never felt safe there, not totally. This is a nice neighborhood, and both of us are here. I figured, with your powers, most human problems would be no trouble,” Jack said, going to the stove and starting to cook.

“You’re right. A demon, any demon, can sense the presence of others in their home. I would know if we had intruders. So if you have guests, please do warn me. I don’t want to show my true face to someone you’re dating, for example. Need help cooking?”

“You could make some coffee, please? And I’ll make sure I let you know if friends are coming over. Kris and Cherry will want to see my new place, and probably Kim Joy too, but I’m not dating anyone, so no one who’d show up for a booty call late at night without a chance for me to tell you,” Jack said as he cooked.

Aaden got to work making the coffee as Jack started to plate pancakes. They smelled great, the banana especially, and Jack was glad he’d thought to put together a sweet breakfast. It was sort of a thank-you to Aaden, for all he was doing. He hadn’t needed to get a nice place, a big bed, to offer to pay for Moon. None of that was part of their deal.

“You don’t have a lover?” Aaden asked.

“You sound surprised,” Jack said, setting two plates of pancakes on the table. Aaden put coffee cups down, and they got cutlery and sat down opposite each other to eat.

“Sorry, I shouldn’t assume you’re allosexual.” Aaden poured an ungodly amount of syrup on his food.

“Don’t apologize. It’s the common assumption. I’m allo and not at all sex repulsed.” Jack blushed.

“So, just not interested in anyone?”

Jack sighed. “It’s a small town, not many out gay men. I didn’t actually tell you I was gay, did I? I hope that’s not an issue.” He bit his lip. He really hoped it wasn’t an issue.

“I knew. I looked into your family a little to help arrange the deal. And no, it’s not an issue. I’m pansexual, myself. Most demons are. Angels too. Far less stigma in our worlds than in yours.” Aaden sounded like he thought humans foolish for the judgment, and Jack agreed.

“Sounds nice,” Jack said wistfully.

“It’s one of the better aspects of my world, one of the few things I prefer. These pancakes are wonderful, by the way. Thank you.” Aaden licked syrup from his full bottom lip, and Jack’s throat went a little dry. Something so simple should not be so sexy, but it was. His mind wandered to syrup on his skin, if Aaden would lick that off him.

“You’re welcome,” Jack managed to croak out, hoping his thoughts didn’t show. He was saved from saying anything else when his cellphone rang. Jack saw Kris’s name and hurried to pick it up.

“Hey, Kris,” Jack said with a glance to Aaden. He wondered if the demon already knew what would have happened to have Kris ringing on a Sunday, when Jack would be coming to his house for a late lunch.

“I hope I didn’t wake you. I just couldn’t wait. Cherry and I just got back from the city. We went early because that’s when my lawyer friend could fit in to come with us to the recording people. They didn’t mind either.” Kris sounded excited and breathless.

“How’d it go?” Jack asked.

“They had a contract for an album and a tour, with a huge advance. I’m talking more money than I have ever seen. The band agreed. I worried that me touring while the baby is young would be hard on Cherry, but she thinks the money will give our kid such a better chance in life.” Kris seemed like he might burst with excitement, and it was catching.

“That’s fantastic. I can’t wait to hug you both. Are we still on for lunch today?”

“Yes, of course. We can talk more about it when you come over later. I just had to tell you.”

Jack could picture the grin on Kris’s face. He saw Aaden smiling and made a choice.

“Can I bring my friend to lunch? He helped me out with this new place. He deserves to taste Cherry’s apple pie.” Jack grinned at Aaden, who looked surprised but pleased.

“Sure he’s just a friend? Either way you can bring him.” Kris sounded curious.

“He’s a good friend. Oh, and I have a cat now. I’ll tell you about that later.” Jack smiled.

“A cat? How did that happen? Ah, I have to go. So much to do but see you soon. This is… I just keep pinching myself. This is like a dream.” Kris seemed a little in shock, but in a good way.

“Yeah, I’ll tell you at lunch. Go organize.” Jack said goodbye to his brother and looked at Aaden. “You don’t have to come. I figured you might not have plans though.”

“I don’t have plans. I’d love to come to lunch with your family. Who will be there?”

“Cherry, Kris, maybe Kim Joy will drop by. They live on the same street. Maybe some of the band too.”

“Sounds good. Do you want to get the stuff for the cat first?”

“Yeah. I need a shower first though.” Jack wasn’t going to Kris’s home smelling of sweat and sleep.

“That’s fine. I’ll shower after you. In the meantime, I’ll clean up, and in the morning, I’ll call the vet. Seeing as you cooked such a great breakfast, I feel it’s the least I can do,” Aaden offered.

“That’d be great, thank you. I won’t take long,” Jack said, standing up.

“No rush.” Aaden sounded casual, but Jack swore that his eyes had raked over his body.

Jack tried not to blush and left the room. First, he got clothes from his bedroom and took them to the bathroom. He stripped off and got into the shower. The water here was actually warm, not just lukewarm like at his old apartment. Jack didn’t want to waste too much time, so he rushed through his shower. He was still damp and flushed when he left the bathroom and ran into Aaden.

“The bathroom is all yours,” Jack said. He realized the last time he’d felt this nervous around a man was when he’d had a high school crush on a senior a year older than him. He didn’t even know how old Aaden was. He looked thirty, tops, but he was a demon. For all Jack knew, they could look thirty at a thousand years old or more.

“Thanks. I’ll try not to be too long, but I do love human showers. Terrible water pressure in my world. I could spend all day under a good shower,” Aaden said, stripping his shirt off casually, showing off muscles, pale skin, and all those marks, from as small as the one on Jack’s ankle to bigger than his hand spread wide. Jack couldn’t help but picture those muscles dripping wet, and his face heated again.

“I’ll go unpack the last of my stuff till you’re ready, so take your time. We have at least two hours to buy cat stuff for Moon.” Jack hoped he didn’t sound too flustered.

“You named the cat Moon?” Aaden smiled.

“Yeah, felt right. I hope we can keep her. Thank you for helping with the cost. I’ll do all the cleaning and stuff,” Jack promised.

“I’ll do my share. The cost is not a big deal. Money is nothing where I’m from. Demons would rather make deals than spend money. Most of the time when I want or need something, I have to make a deal, and you never know what they’ll ask for. I kind of prefer just handing over money,” Aaden explained, still standing shirtless with no hint of shyness. Jack guessed if he himself looked like a wet dream come to life, he’d be more casual about being half naked around men too.

“Still, thank you. I’m gonna go do some stuff. You have your shower.” Jack managed not to stutter.

“Thank you, I can drive us. My regular car is in the garage. The van was a rental, they’ll come pick it up. I love driving in this world.” Aaden beamed with happiness.

“You like sweet food, showers, money, and driving. Anything else you love about the human world?” Jack asked.

Aaden gave him a long look, his eyes flicking purple. “The people have their charms.”

Jack didn’t get to think of a response before Aaden wandered off into the bathroom. He took a breath and headed for his bedroom. He set about organizing his room a bit more, while Moon sat staring at him with a look of judgment.

“I know, Moon. I’m an idiot. I know a demon for two days and I’m… I don’t know what I’m doing. Getting involved more than I should, probably.” Jack sighed and kept unpacking. Moon meowed at him and brushed against his leg before jumping up on Jack’s bed and getting comfortable, still watching him with those curious yellow eyes. They made him think of Aaden, his purple eyes, and how they’d show through the brown when Jack had been practicing magic, wondering what it meant. Didn’t seem like anger or feel like he’d touched Aaden’s magic again.

Aaden called his name not long after, ready to go, and Jack vowed to himself not to make a fool of himself over his new housemate. They got in Aaden’s car. He had, like Jack, braided his still damp hair to let it dry, and Jack couldn’t help smiling at the similarity.

“What’s that smile for?” Aaden asked as he drove.

“Our hair. We both tied it up damp.” Jack shrugged. He had promised not to lie. Hiding desire was different.

“I don’t like blow-drying it. Makes it dry weird, not as soft,” Aaden grumbled, and Jack found it refreshing that Aaden didn’t do the macho posing thing when it came to grooming. Jack had gone to school with too many guys who thought combing their hair too often was girly and therefore bad.

“You need a better conditioner. Cherry gave me some of this stuff once to protect hair from heat so it stays soft.” Jack didn’t mention he’d wanted his hair nice so he could go cruising at bars in the city. Guys liked his hair, liked to thread their fingers in it and tug him around. If done right, and with consent, Jack loved having his hair pulled and played with. He wondered if Aaden was the type to like his hair touched or not, wondered if he’d find out in their time together.

“Humans are amazing. I will have to try that, though with the heat here, I imagine it’ll dry fast anyway,” Aaden said, pulling into the pet shop’s parking lot.

“You’re not kidding. The heat here is something else. Isn’t it where you’re from?” Jack asked, curious about Aaden’s dimension.

“A lot like your world, it varies all over. Pretty cold where I’m from for most of the year.”

“Is that why you’re so pale?” Jack blurted as they opened their doors.

Aaden paused, held up a hand, and inspected it. “I guess I am pale compared to you. I don’t tan; I burn. I’ll need to get some sunscreen, actually, for my stay here.”

They got out the car, and together went to the pet store and asked the girl behind the desk what a young cat would need. She was super helpful and kind. Her name was Ana, and she was one of the mayor’s nieces. It had been a big deal when her uncle was voted in. He was the first African American mayor their town had ever had. She led them around, and Jack found it weird not to be worrying and triple checking every price. If Ana said it was good, Aaden put it into the basket he was carrying.

It wasn’t long before they said goodbye to Ana, thanked her, and headed home to start things like worm medication for Moon. They gave her some proper cat food and treats. They put away brushes and left some toys out for her. They’d bought a bed, but Moon merely sniffed it and went back to Jack’s bed to nap.

After that, they headed out to Kris and Cherry’s place. Jack found himself actually nervous when they pulled up outside. He told himself to stop being ridiculous. He’d lived here. He loved the people inside, but he was still wondering how the deal would play out and how Aaden would be around his family. He’d been so great about everything so far, but this was different, more important. Jack’s family was everything to him. They were the reason he’d summoned Aaden in the first place.

“Is there anything I shouldn’t say?” Jack asked as they parked in Kris’s driveway.

“Other than not outing me as a demon? Nothing, really. Make up what stories you think they’ll believe. You know them better than me, after all, and I’ll just follow your lead.” Aaden shrugged.

“I don’t know you well yet, but I have a feeling you don’t often follow someone else’s lead,” Jack guessed.

“I’m not great at it, honestly. Bit of a control freak. You have to be that way around other demons—and angels too. I know I can relax more here, so I plan to try. I don’t feel like bossing you around, and for some reason, I have never liked most people being scared of me. I definitely don’t want you to be scared of me,” Aaden explained.

“I’m not, not really. I mean, I was in the church, but I don’t know, you seem less otherworldly and intimidating now. I’m liking getting to know you,” Jack admitted.

Aaden smiled, and it made Jack’s stomach clench. “I think your brother and sister-in-law are waiting.”

His comment implied they might be watching, and Jack, feeling guilty as if he’d been caught doing something wrong, hurried out of the car. He knew they were only talking, but somehow it felt like more. Maybe it was their domestic morning, breakfast together, shopping for their pet. It had him feeling confused, like they were a couple or something, but Aaden hadn’t made a deal to be his boyfriend and probably had some hot demon at home waiting for him—or several.

Jack went to the door, and before he could get his keys out, it opened to reveal a beaming Cherry, her red curls scraped into a ponytail and wearing a loose flowing, pale-blue cotton dress. Jack wondered if she had a bump yet. It had been a few weeks since he’d last seen her. She looked like she was glowing, so happy, and bright, like a weight had been lifted from her.

“Jack, and this handsome fella must be the friend Kris mentioned. Nice to meet you. Jack hardly ever brings friends home,” Cherry said, moving in for a hug. Jack knew it was probably foolish, but he was extra careful not to squeeze too tightly. He never wanted to hurt Cherry, and now he had a nibling he didn’t want to hurt either.

“So good to see you,” Jack said against Cherry’s neck, feeling oddly emotional. He thought it was because he knew how much a baby would mean to her and Kris. He prayed she’d have a healthy pregnancy.

“Nice to meet you, Cherry. I’m Aaden.” Aaden offered his hand to shake when Jack stepped out of Cherry’s arms.

“Aaden, I like that. What an unusual name, and don’t be foolish. Any friend of Jack’s is family. You can hug me if you like. No pressure if you’re not a hugger. I know not everyone is,” Cherry said, and Jack smiled. That was so like her, warm, welcoming, but never pushy.

Aaden looked surprised but moved into Cherry’s open arms. Cherry was so small, and Aaden so large, that it looked almost like an adult hugging a child.

“Well, come on in, both of you. Kris decided to barbecue to save me from cooking. I’ve been so tired lately…but it’s worth it.” Cherry smiled and led them into the house.

They followed her to the backyard while she chatted about things they planned to improve in the house. Jack could see Aaden looking around, and he wondered what he thought of his childhood home. Jack loved it. It was a little run-down from age, but otherwise well kept.

“You have a lovely home,” Aaden said as they got to the yard, and he sounded like he meant it.

“Why, thank you. Kris, come say hello to your brother,” Cherry called and led them to a table with drinks on it. Jack recognized Cherry’s homemade strawberry lemonade, and he couldn’t wait for Aaden to taste it. It was sweet and refreshing and Jack was sure he’d love it. He wanted to shake himself as he sat down; a day and a bit of knowing Aaden, and he already cared so much about making him happy. A month was going to kill him. Three would be some kind of living hell of his own making.

Kris left his bandmates by the barbeque and came over. He kissed Cherry, hand on her shoulder, and he looked so relaxed; so much tension was gone already. Jack figured he could live in hormone hell for years if he had to, to see his brother like this. He’d make that deal three times over, even if his dick would probably never forgive him.

“How’s the new house?” Kris asked once he’d greeted Jack and Aaden and taken a seat next to Cherry, his limbs loose, smile real and relaxed. He looked like a different man; a man Jack knew but hardly ever got to see.

“I love it. So much better than my apartment,” Jack said honestly.

“If you need any help with bills, let us know, okay? Things aren’t so tight anymore. Don’t worry though—we’re not gonna go nuts and spend it on flashy cars and holidays. I play this smart, and we’ll be good for a long time. But there’s enough I can take care of you too,” Kris said, taking Cherry’s hand. They both looked so happy.

“Thank you. I might need some help at some point, but I think I’m okay for now,” Jack said, glancing at Aaden.

“I really wanted a roommate I could trust, who’d help me get used to small-town life again, and Jack is that person, so I’m not going to charge him through the nose for rent. I just like his company.” Aaden sounded like he was telling the truth, and Jack wasn’t sure if the words were for Kris’s benefit or his.

“That’s good to hear. You seem like a level-headed guy who won’t get my brother in too much trouble.” Kris grinned.

“Stop worrying so much, Kris. I know how to stay out of trouble just fine.” Jack knew damn well his brother wouldn’t consider summoning a real-ass demon “staying out of trouble.” He’d see it more as poking at trouble with a sharp stick.

“I still don’t like you working at the bar so much, they run you ragged. Can you cut your hours? Look for a job that makes you happy, not the one that earns the most?” Kris asked.

“We know the bar doesn’t make you happy. Some of the customers are so awful to you,” Cherry said, concern clear in her voice.

“They are?” Aaden had a dangerous look in his eyes, and Jack was worried they’d turn purple.

“Well, yeah. You know how drunk people can be. And small towns in Texas aren’t known for being progressive. I’m openly gay. It happens.” Jack usually tried to play down the abuse, the threats he had gotten, for Kris’s and Cherry’s benefit, and now he was doing it for Aaden’s too, although Jack had a feeling Aaden knew just how ugly humans could be.

“Have you ever been hurt?” Aaden asked.

“Not at work,” Kris answered for him, sounding damn angry about it still. Jack tried not to care. That was high school. He’d been attacked a few times. Not as many as he would have been if Kris hadn’t been around. His brother, his guardian, had squared up to a bully or two—and their dads—in his time. But high school was years ago now.

“Drunks try, but even my crappy fighting skills do the trick against them,” Jack said, trying to keep talk on the future, not the past, not high school, which had been its own kind of hell.

“I can teach you some self-defense,” Aaden offered.

“He let me train him a little, but didn’t like my army style,” Kris warned.

“I was never in an army, but I know some ways to protect myself and others.” Aaden sounded modest, but Jack got a sneaking feeling he was more than okay in a fight.

“I’ll reduce my shifts if you guys stop trying to turn me into Rambo. Cherry is right. It’s not a job I have a passion for. Not sure what I’d do if anything were a choice, but I’ll think on it some,” Jack promised.

“So, Kris said you got a cat?” Cherry said, and Jack could kiss her for changing the subject.

“Well, kinda. No one’s reported her missing. Aaden called the vet and checked. We’ll put up posters but looks like she’s ours to keep. She showed up in the middle of the night, meowing at the back door,” Jack explained.

“You always did like animals. I remember you begged for one as a kid, but Dad was allergic,” Kris said, pouring them all drinks.

“He was? I forgot about that.” Jack hated how much he’d forgotten about his parents. He’d been a young teen when they’d died, and often, if he tried to think of them, all he could picture was their death. The therapist the school sent him to told him his mind was trapped by the trauma, and he couldn’t see back past that block.

“It just showed up?” Cherry asked. She knew he found it harder than Kris to talk about their parents.

“Yeah. Hungry, thirsty, and happy to be inside.” Jack nodded.

“She loves Jack, follows him around. I’m definitely second fiddle,” Aaden joked.

“Aww, I’m sure she loves you too,” Cherry said as one of the members of Kris’s band called for assistance.

“I’ll go. Food should be ready soon,” Kris said, standing.

“I should wash my hands,” Aaden commented.

“Jack, be a doll and show Aaden the bathroom, and you should show him the guest room. It’s going to be changing soon,” Cherry said, delight in her voice.

“Of course. You okay alone?” Jack asked, standing and kissing his sister-in-law on the cheek. He loved Cherry so much. She had her flaws, like everyone, but she was kind. She loved Kris to the moon and back, and she would love their baby just as fiercely.

“Kim Joy will be here soon, and Kris won’t be too long. You boys go,” Cherry encouraged them.

They both left the table and went back into the relative coolness of the house. Jack led the way upstairs and pointed to the bathroom. Aaden went in, leaving the door open, while Jack waited. Aaden washed his hands and dried them.

“Was the guest room your room before?” Aaden asked as Jack opened the door to the pretty but plain room.

“Yeah. How’d you guess?” Jack went in and sat on the single bed. He felt a little off, overwhelmed again. Introducing Aaden to his family, Kris worrying about his job and safety, talk of the past, his own feelings—it was just a little much. He needed a break before going back to his family and friends. Kim Joy would sense if he were out of whack, so he needed to pull it together.

“Your energy imprint still lingers,” Aaden said, leaning against the doorframe and watching Jack. He made Jack feel a little like prey being stalked.

“What can you feel?” Jack’s curiosity was piqued.

“Sadness, anger, frustration. Those are older but were strong enough to leave a mark.” Aaden looked as if he wanted to ask something.

“What is it? What do you want to know? I promised no lies,” Jack pointed out.

“No lies doesn’t mean not keeping things to yourself. You can do that. Our deal does not entitle me to every part of you. Body, mind, and soul are yours, and yours alone. I’ll only ask if you’re sure, and you can always not answer.”

“Ask,” Jack said, thankful for Aaden’s words. He believed Aaden meant them. Aaden didn’t feel he owned Jack, despite their deal.

“What happened to your parents?”

“You don’t know?” Jack had assumed when looking into their lives for the deal, Aaden would have investigated the past that had led to Kris raising Jack.

“No, I only looked at the people in this town whom I’d meet,” Aaden told him, walking over and taking a seat on the edge of the bed beside Jack. It creaked under his weight.

“Well, ah, Kris was in the army and my parents won a trip, a boating trip. We went. Something went wrong in the night. We hit some rocks, and the boat sank. My parents and the crew didn’t make it. I did. I held on to this bit of the boat for hours. I called for my parents. Someone had sent out a mayday, and the search party found me. I had hypothermia and was near dead, but somehow, I’m still here, and they’re not.” Jack could remember the hospital, Kris arriving to break the news that their parents were gone and promising he’d be there for Jack, and he had been.

“I’m so sorry, but I’m glad you survived.” Aaden hesitated, then put his hand on Jack’s shoulder. Aaden’s fingers brushed Jack’s neck. Although Jack knew the gesture was just meant to comfort him, despite the sadness, the numbness in his chest, his body reacted, his blood heated.

“Thank you.” Jack had to choke out the words, his throat tight. He felt a little shaky, his stomach quivering. He was so close to Aaden, a man who’d been a stranger just days ago, but he’d tipped Jack’s world upside down in so many ways in those days, and Jack wanted him. He couldn’t deny that.

As Jack looked at Aaden in the quiet of his former bedroom, he felt a charge between them, and in that moment, Aaden’s brown eyes became purple once more.

“Why do they do that? Change?” Jack asked.

“They shouldn’t. My control should be better than this,” Aaden grumbled.

“But what triggers it?”

“Strong emotion, like anger.”

“So, you’re mad at me?” Jack frowned. He’d thought they were getting along well.

“No, far from it.”

“Then what?”

“You want me to show you?” There was a challenge in his silky voice. It sounded like a dare to jump off a cliff, but then Jack had been making a point of being fearless recently, what with summoning demons in graveyards.

“Show me.” Jack was hopeful he was reading the tension in Aaden’s body the right way.

Aaden moved his hand from Jack’s shoulder to his neck, cupping it just firmly enough to move Jack slightly, then Aaden himself moved as fast as a snake striking. It wasn’t a bite Jack received, but the most passionate kiss he had ever experienced. He parted his lips and let Aaden in, holding on to Aaden’s waist.

Then, as suddenly as it started, Aaden pulled away, cutting off the fire roaring to life in Jack.

“I’m sorry. I never should have done that. I’m not here for this. Come on, people will miss us.” Aaden got up and walked out of the room like he was running from a monster.

Jack sighed. He’d fucked up and the next three months would be an awkward mess. But he’d do it for his family.

But as he got up to head back to the yard, he couldn’t help but feel a little angry. Jack hadn’t started the kiss, Aaden had. He’d touched Jack. His eyes had changed. Strong emotion… Aaden had started it, damn it, and Jack planned to call him out on it as soon as they were alone. But, for now, Cherry’s parents had arrived along with Kim Joy, and everyone looked like they were having a great time, so Jack tried to put his mood aside. He didn’t want to ruin things for everyone else.

He’d gone to pour more strawberry lemonade for Aaden and Cherry’s dad, Frank, because he had manners. Despite his anger, he could tell Aaden liked the sweet drink, and he wanted Aaden to enjoy himself. That was when Kim Joy approached him.

“Your energy is off,” Kim told him.

“Can everyone read energy but me?” Jack grumbled, thinking about Aaden and his talk of Jack’s old bedroom holding an imprint.

“You can probably read it too. Might do it without knowing. Like in the bar, when you can always tell a person’s mood. Not everyone can do that. You just need to train your gift. But don’t distract me. What has you so off balance?”

Untrained. Jack remembered the night before, touching Aaden’s magic, drawing energy from it without meaning to. He wondered what Kim would think of that. Had they ever done something like it to another witch? But that wasn’t the most pressing thing on his mind.

“Aaden kissed me,” he admitted.

“Did he ask?” Kim Joy asked, not seeming very shocked. Jack had thought it bigger news. He’d been kissed by a gorgeous being from another world—a demon.

“Kind of. Consent was there,” Jack assured them.

“So what’s the problem?”

“You’re not surprised? And the problem is he freaked out after.”

“I saw the looks you two were trading in the bar. Honestly, I’m surprised you’ve only kissed.” Kim Joy shrugged.

“There were looks? And it’s been days! I’m not always quick to get in bed, you know.” Jack had told Kim Joy about his hookups in the past because he knew they weren’t judgmental about sex. They had never made him feel guilty for having sex with strangers or men he didn’t like that much.

“Um, the come-fuck-me looks? And I know, Jack, but the way you two were sparking, the energy made me tingle.”

“I didn’t really notice. I was working and nervous about Kris. But I guess I might have had a few lustful thoughts that night,” Jack admitted.

“Right, so you like him, and he likes you. Why did he freak?”

“I don’t know.” Jack sighed.

“You haven’t asked him? Cis men, so bad at communicating.” Kim Joy rolled their eyes.

“I’m great at talking. It only just happened. We haven’t been alone since.”

“Well, talk to him soon. Your energy will remain out of whack till you do.”

“You don’t think me hooking up with a demon is a bad idea?” Jack glanced over at where Aaden was sitting with Cherry and her parents. They looked deep in conversation, but as soon as Jack looked over at him, Aaden looked back. They made eye contact for a second, and Jack’s stomach clenched with lust. Aaden quickly looked away and brushed a hand over his hair.

“Come-fuck-me looks again. And not really. Lots of witches do it. There are rituals based on it.” Kim Joy shrugged.

“Have you?” Jack asked.

“No. Most of those who do are heading toward dark magic or say it’s to get stronger, and I’m happy as I am. Not to mention a lot of the old spells are so cisnormative, all about female energy and male energy, and you know that doesn’t work for me.”

“You don’t think I’d end up the first cis man to have a demon baby, or summon, like, a great evil into the world?” Jack voiced his vague concerns. He liked Aaden. He didn’t seem evil at all, but he was a demon, and there was a lot Jack didn’t know about him yet.

“Don’t be silly. You’re just putting up hurdles for yourself because you’re afraid of getting involved with someone you have to be around for a while,” Kim Joy said, completely calling him out in the way only a good friend could.

“Okay, I’ll consider it. Now I need to bring these drinks over.” Jack picked up the glasses.

“I’m gonna grab a burger. Try not to be too stressed till you talk to him.”

“I’ll relax.” Jack took the glasses of strawberry lemonade over to the table and took his seat between Aaden and Cherry.

“How’s Kim Joy?” Cherry asked.

“Enjoying your husband’s food,” Jack said, suddenly glad Aaden had been facing away from him and Kim for most of their conversation. He’d just remembered that Aaden could lip read.

“Kris is really just the king of the barbeque, a good cook all around. But then, both you boys can put a meal together,” Cherry said happily.

“Your father can work a grill but is useless in the kitchen,” Cherry’s mother, Kathy, sighed.

“Well, you’re such a good cook, I never had to learn,” Fred said with a roguish smile.

“Flatterer.” Kathy swatted Fred, but she looked pleased. Jack knew they’d been together forever, and Cherry said they were still very much in love.

“So, you cook, Aaden?” Cherry asked.

Jack let himself glance at Aaden beside him. He looked mostly relaxed. His eyes were a deep brown, and he was still breathtakingly handsome, if a little pink.

“I can cook a bit, enough to not have to survive on microwave food, but nothing like the pancakes Jack cooked this morning. They were perfect. I usually just eat kids’ cereals for breakfast,” Aaden admitted.

Jack tried not to glow at the compliment to his cooking. He’d enjoyed having someone to cook for in the morning, a reason to do more than toast. He never bothered to make anything fancy for himself, but he’d wanted to do something nice for Aaden. Jack kind of wanted to hide when Cherry gave him a knowing look—she knew well enough that he’d never cooked a date breakfast. He cooked for friends, family, people he cared about.

He couldn’t care about Aaden already. Maybe he was just grateful because Aaden had come along and changed his life: new house, money, helping Kris. But Jack thought that didn’t feel right. He was grateful, but it wasn’t just that. He knew in his heart he would have been attracted to Aaden no matter how he’d met him, especially after he’d felt his energy. Every time he thought back to it, he felt like he discovered more layers of Aaden, what he was feeling, the trust he’d given Jack in that moment.

“Oh, Jack makes great pancakes, but have you ever had his chocolate cake? It is to die for. I’d sell my soul for a slice of it,” Cherry said, and Jack choked on the strawberry lemonade he’d just drunk.

Aaden patted his back gently till the coughing fit passed, and Jack took another drink to soothe his throat. He was going to have to get Kim Joy to talk to her about maybe not offering to sell her soul. Aaden might be safe, but you never knew who might be listening.

“No, I haven’t had that pleasure,” Aaden said, and he didn’t sound like he was talking about cake. Jack felt like he had emotional whiplash. Now he was back to flirting?

“I love your accent. Where are you from?” Kathy asked, and Jack held his breath a little.

“Here, originally, but I’ve lived all over, and it has muddled my accent. But I’m glad you like it,” Aaden said, the lie clearly coming easily, and Jack wondered again if Aaden was someone he should trust. He’d been given no reason not to. Aaden was delivering all he’d promised in the graveyard and more, but the way he lied so easily made Jack a little uneasy. But it was part of Aaden’s job, and he’d mentioned how hard dealing with demons and angels could be, so maybe he had no choice but to be a good liar. It wasn’t like it was a harmful lie, just part of his cover.

“Is your family around?” Fred asked.

“My family is spread all over. I talk to my mom when I can, but we’re not like all of you here. This is nicer,” Aaden said, and this time Jack was sure there was no lie.

The food and drink kept coming, and Jack asked Cherry if she had sunscreen, which, as a natural redhead in Texas, she did. He got it, not wanting Cherry running around after him. It was the spray kind, and Jack firmly told Aaden to stand and move as he needed so he could coat Aaden with the spray and rub it in. Aaden looked both confused and pleased. Kim Joy looked amused, Kris confused, and Cherry pleased. The sunscreen allowed them to stay in the sun till it got dark and almost everyone else had gone home.

Jack hugged Kris goodbye while Aaden was further back, talking to Cherry about something.

“Today was good. Thank you for coming. And thank you for sticking by me. I know things are gonna get pretty weird with releasing a record and having a kid, but I know with you and Cherry at my back, it’s all gonna work out. Taking a risk can pay off. Going to that meeting, it’s gonna change all our lives,” Kris said, sounding happy and emotional. It made Jack choke up a little too.

He hugged Kris again. “You deserve it, all of it.”

“Thank you. You better get going. It’s late. Cherry should rest.” Kris grinned.

“She good?” Jack asked.

“Perfect.” Kris smiled.

Aaden reached them and said goodbye to Kris, and before Jack knew it, he was in Aaden’s car, back on the road.

“So, your family is nice,” Aaden said, all casual, like nothing had happened, and Jack wasn’t having that.

“That’s all you have to say after what happened?” Jack asked.

“I already apologized. Thought that covered it.” Aaden kept his eyes on the road, and Jack had a feeling it had nothing to do with safety.

“You thought wrong,” Jack snapped, his anger surging inside him. He wasn’t often an angry person, but the way Aaden was so unbothered and unaffected really got under his skin.

“What else is there to say?” Aaden shrugged.

“How about: why did you kiss me? And then why did you change your mind faster than a damn yoyo?” Jack growled.

“I should think it’s fairly obvious why I kissed you. You’re attractive, and I find you appealing. But that doesn’t change the fact that this can’t go anywhere. We literally live in different worlds.” Aaden sounded firm. Jack wanted to see him crack, to see emotion from him again.

“Who says I want it to go anywhere? We might not even be compatible in the bedroom. And even if we are, wouldn’t you rather we spend three months fucking instead of just exploring small town life?” Jack saw a shift in Aaden’s face, like maybe he wasn’t as unaffected as he was making out.

“I don’t need you to have sex with me out of gratitude,” Aaden snapped.

“Not gonna lie. I’m grateful for all you’ve done, but we have our deal. I’m earning it with time, not on my back or my knees. Does it not occur to you that maybe I find you attractive too?” Jack was so annoyed. No one had ever gotten under his skin so fast.

“You honestly want to let a demon touch you? Be inside you? And I’m not talking an exorcist style possession.” Aaden glanced over. His eyes were purple, and he sounded angry, or maybe just frustrated. Jack couldn’t quite read him.

“Sounds like you have a hangup about what you are. I don’t. So yes, I’d let you touch me. I’ve had thoughts about you being inside me since the graveyard.” Jack couldn’t really believe it hadn’t even been a week. He’d gone from not knowing demons existed outside of movies, to demanding to know why one wouldn’t fuck him.

“I do not have a hangup, but I have never taken a human to bed, let alone one I made a deal with,” Aaden said, flicking the turn signal on with more force than necessary. Jack was surprised it didn’t snap like a twig. He hoped this car wasn’t a rental.

“Is it against the rules?” Jack wondered if he was asking for the impossible. With the little he knew of Aaden’s political world and job, he still knew that Aaden took rules very seriously.

“Not completely. Witches are a gray area. It used to be common for witches to summon demons for sex to gain power, well, steal power.” Aaden shook his head.

“Like when I touched your magic. They waited for defenses to be down and took,” Jack realized.

“Only what you did was an accident. You did no harm. Those of us, demons who come into this world, have been taught to be careful who we sleep with,” Aaden explained.

“I’m not even a proper witch. I’m not going to drain your power. So, is there any reason we can’t have some fun?”

“It would be a bad idea. I could hurt you.” Aaden sounded less sure of himself now.

They pulled into the driveway of their house, but neither of them made a move to get out.

Jack paused. “Do you, like, have a weird, spiky dick?”

“What? No! Why would you think that?” Aaden sounded appalled.

“Newbie to demons, remember? Why would you hurt me then?” Jack was a little afraid and a lot curious, well aware he was playing with fire here.

“I’m stronger than a human. I’m good at controlling it for regular touch, but sex with me would not be gentle. The more into a person I am, the rougher things can get. You’re like catnip to me, like someone brought a sex dream to life.” Aaden balled his fists. He sounded frustrated again.

“I’ve had rough sex before, Aaden. A few bruises don’t frighten me. I’m human, but I’m not fragile. I live with PTSD. Do you know how hard that can be? I’m not weak,” Jack insisted. He knew Aaden hadn’t really seen signs of his PTSD yet, like how he couldn’t sleep with a locked bedroom door because the locked doors on the boat had nearly killed him, and the investigator had thought hindered his parents and the crew. It had been years before he could be locked in anywhere, even a car, even miles away from so much as a drop of water.

“I know you’re not weak. You had the balls to summon me, to offer everything and anything for your brother. But it wouldn’t just be bruises. It’d be claw marks and biting. I’d draw blood.”

Jack could picture it, and a shiver went through his body, and not an unpleasant one.

“See, you’re scared of me now.” Aaden sounded utterly dejected.

“Not scared, horny. Give me permission to show you I’m not lying?”

“Okay,” Aaden said cautiously.

Jack reached out and took Aaden’s large hand and put it straight between his legs. His cock stiffened further.

“That feel like fear to you?” Jack’s words came out a little breathy, as if he was auditioning for a phone sex line.

Aaden growled like a wild animal, and Jack felt a surge of energy in the car. The senses he’d been starting to use burst to life. He could feel Aaden’s desire as easily as he could see Aaden’s purple eyes.

“We should go inside,” Aaden said, sounding deceptively calm.

“Why?” Jack asked, his whole body feeling like it was pulsating, beating in time to his rapid heart rate.

“Because I think the neighbors would object to me fucking you in the car out here,” Aaden growled, and even that somehow sounded classy in his voice, and kind of tempting.

“Inside,” Jack croaked out.

They opened the car quickly, and Jack almost fell on his face getting out of it. He was so unsteady, but he somehow stayed on his feet. He’d say an angel was watching over him, but it seemed he had a better chance with a demon.

Aaden had the door open in seconds. Jack didn’t even see keys, wasn’t sure he used them, but he could ask about that later. Right now, other things were a priority.

“Whose bedroom?” Aaden asked, backing Jack into the hallway wall after he closed the front door behind them.

“Yours. Moon might be sleeping in mine,” Jack said as his back hit the wall. He grabbed Aaden’s shirt and dragged him closer.

“Can I kiss you?” Aaden asked, his face so close to Jack’s, but not close enough.

“As often as you like.” Jack swallowed in nervous anticipation.

Aaden leaned in, and it seemed he was fighting to be gentle, his whole body tense and holding back, his lips just brushing Jack’s like he was kissing something breakable. Jack didn’t want that. He wasn’t a glass vase on a shelf to be looked at and never truly used.

Jack slid a hand over Aaden’s ass and pulled him closer, flicking his tongue out to taste Aaden’s lips, and the touches were like a spark to gunpowder, instant fireworks. Aaden slammed him back into the wall, his kiss ravishing Jack’s mouth. Aaden’s hands couldn’t seem to settle, moving along Jack’s sides as if searching for something, like he couldn’t get enough.

“I want this off. Can I?” Aaden growled, tugging at Jack’s shirt, so close they were breathing each other’s breath.

“Yeah. Less clothes is good. I’m a fan,” Jack babbled, and Aaden put a hand over his buttons, ran it downward, and Jack’s shirt flapped open. “That was smooth.”

“Thanks. If you like that, I have more to show you, and things I can teach you, being a witch. Now, I think we should go to my bedroom.” Aaden pushed the shirt off Jack’s shoulders, letting it drop to the floor.

“Yes to all of that. Show me more, and let’s go to your room.” Jack was breathless already.

Aaden offered his hand. Jack wanted to stay connected, so he took it. They walked quickly together to Aaden’s bedroom, shutting themselves inside, but not locking the bolt, to avoid a feline visit at an inopportune moment.

“I want you to know our deal doesn’t mean I’m in charge here. You do as you wish, always. You say stop, and I stop,” Aaden said as he stripped off his own shirt. He had a beautiful body, all those unusual brands and tattoo-like marks. Jack was dying to see if there were more on the rest of his body. They highlighted his muscles, contrasting with his pale skin.

“Thank you,” Jack said softly.

“For what? I haven’t done anything yet.” Aaden sounded confused.

“You have. You’ve respected me, reassured me. I don’t often get that from the men I sleep with. I like that your power doesn’t make you arrogant.” Jack stepped into Aaden’s space and trailed a hand over his chest before curling it into Aaden’s waistband.

“Would it kill the mood if I offered to kill anyone who has had the honor of your body and disrespected you?” Aaden growled in his cultured voice, and with his accent it sounded somehow like nothing more than a casual offer, yet Jack knew he was totally serious, and deadly.

“No need, but I appreciate the offer. Now, do I get to see whether you have marks anywhere else?” Jack saw the heat flare in Aaden’s purple eyes, like violet flames.

“Do as you wish. I’m yours to do with as you will.” Aaden said it coolly, but it sounded better and hotter than the filthiest dirty talk Jack had ever heard.

Jack decided two could play at that game and, summoning up every scrap of grace he had in his body, he folded to his knees in one fluid movement till he was kneeling in front of Aaden, his hand still on Aaden’s belt. Jack had never felt more powerful at a man’s knees than he had when Aaden looked at him with a gaze that could set everything alight. Jack began unbuckling Aaden’s belt.

“Can you take your boots off?” Jack requested as he pulled down Aaden’s zipper.

“I’d be a fool to refuse.” With grace and ease, Aaden quickly removed his boots. He tossed them to one side, and Jack heard them land but did not look to see where.

Aaden had a tattoo-like mark on one foot and a brand over his right arch. Jack trailed his fingers over the tendons, then moved his hands upward, stroking up over Aaden’s knees and thick thighs. Then he took hold of Aaden’s pants and pulled them down. Aaden stepped up and out of each leg without prompting, all the while watching Jack intently.

Jack repeated the path of his hands, up over marked shins and calves, over thighs, until he got to the waist of Aaden’s underwear and pulled that down gently too. Aaden had a brand on his groin, close to the base of his cock. Jack wanted to know the story behind each mark, but mostly that one. But he wasn’t sure his questions would be as welcome as his touch.

“You’re a tease, little witch,” Aaden said, not sounding angry about it as Jack walked his fingers over the swirls of black on Aaden’s powerful thighs.

“You have no idea. I could torment a man like you for hours. But you’re lucky: I’m feeling kind.” Jack grinned. He felt sexy, confident, in charge, even though he was on his knees. He’d heard from others about feeling that way, but he’d never really felt it himself till this moment. He felt like one of the differences wasn’t that Aaden was a demon, or more attractive than average. It was the honesty. Jack had never really dated. Most of the men he slept with didn’t even know his real name, but Aaden already knew so much.

“A man like me?”

“Gorgeous, sinfully so, but then I guess you could teach me a thing or two about true sin.” Jack got to his feet slowly. He removed his boots, then his jeans and underwear, till he was standing before Aaden completely naked. He loved the way Aaden looked at him, like he was some rare treasure, not just a man.

Aaden put one of his large hands on Jack’s naked hip. “I can teach you how to sin in the old ways, but I think together we can create new ways to sin.”

“Um, did I ever ask how old you were? I’m cool with older men,” Jack said, his mind blanked with nerves and excitement. He was pretty sure he’d never been so turned on in his life.

“I’m about twenty years older than you,” Aaden told him, scraping his fingernails over Jack’s hipbone again, causing a slight sting that sent a thrill through Jack’s body.

“You look good for your age.” Jack moved closer again, until his lips hovered against Aaden’s.

“I think I have the energy to keep up with you, witch,” Aaden purred.

“I don’t doubt that. Show me what you’ve got?” Jack dared.

Aaden slid his hand behind Jack’s head, and he felt his braid unravel, thick blond hair falling around his shoulders. Then Aaden slid his hand into Jack’s locks and tugged him forward. He closed the small gap between them and kissed Jack so passionately that Jack’s knees weakened. He’d never been kissed like this before, and he wasn’t sure what he enjoyed more, the slight sting and tug on his hair or the feel of his lips being parted, his mouth explored by Aaden.

Jack had to cling to Aaden, and Aaden’s strong arm held him up, supporting him effortlessly. Jack became aware that Aaden was probably strong enough to hold him up off his feet if he wanted to. It should have been intimidating, experiencing a demon’s strength like that, but already the fear he had felt in the graveyard was gone. He trusted Aaden not to hurt him, maybe because Aaden could have asked for anything from him that morning, yet he asked for nothing more than three months of company, a reason to be in the human world. Jack had started to think he was getting the better end of this deal. He was getting what he wanted for Kris, and he was getting this, Aaden’s company, his attention.

“Did you use magic to undo my hair?” Jack gasped when their kiss broke, holding on to Aaden with both hands, Aaden’s hand still fisted in his hair.

“Too impatient? Is the reminder I’m not human off-putting?” Aaden asked with concern.

“No to both. I like it. Be as demon as you like. In fact, I’d like it if you showed me yourself, like in the graveyard, the horns, the claws. All of it is you. I want to be with you.” Jack didn’t want Aaden to have to hide, to use his magic to hold back and mask a part of himself. He had decided if he was going to do this, he was going all in, and that meant no pretending Aaden was an ordinary man.

“Are you sure? I didn’t scare you like that?” Aaden asked, his eyes glowing.

“Well, I was scared. I didn’t know you. I thought you were gonna, like, eat my soul or demand my firstborn. But honestly, I still found you hot. I never had a thing for guys dressed up as demons on Halloween, but turns out the real thing pushed my buttons,” Jack said honestly.

Aaden grinned, slow and sexy, and those small curved horns split through the skin on his forehead. Jack felt the claws on Aaden’s fingers grow, poking into his skin. And it should’ve made his heart beat in fear, but instead the sensation went straight to his cock, a pulse of pleasure.

“Can I touch your horns?” Jack blurted.

“Jack, you can touch me anywhere you want.” Aaden grinned.

Jack lifted his hand and ran a finger over Aaden’s left horn. It felt so smooth and slightly warm. He rubbed it with his fingertips, and Aaden growled. “You can feel that?”

“Yeah, it’s part of me.”

“Does it feel good?”

“Yeah, whenever you touch me, it feels good, so no surprise there. You don’t need spells to have magic in your touch.”

Jack couldn’t help grinning like a fool, then he kissed Aaden, laughing a little out of sheer delight. He wanted this, and he could have this, maybe for only three months, but it would have to be long enough to burn this fire out of his system.

Aaden lifted him off his feet as they kissed and stumbled back toward the waiting bed. They tumbled down together, their kiss only breaking for as long as it had to, then Aaden was above him on the bed, pinning him down, naked body to naked body, miles of skin to touch and taste.

“Tell me if I hurt you, if you don’t like it,” Aaden said firmly, and he ran his clawed hand down Jack’s chest, raising faint red lines. It stung, but it didn’t feel bad. It made his nerves feel more alive, made him more aware of Aaden’s hips against his, Aaden’s thick cock pressing into his thigh.

“Do that again?” Jack said shakily.

“You asking or telling?” Aaden smirked.

“Does it matter?”

“I kind of want you to tell me what you want. Is it wrong that I get off on the idea of you telling me what to do?” Aaden had a hand on Jack’s hip, stroking, teasing with tiny pinpricks of his nails.

“That a kink of yours? Bossy lovers?” Jack reached up and started undoing Aaden’s hair because he wanted the soot-black and purple waves available to play with. He wondered if he could ever learn enough magic to unbraid Aaden’s hair the way Aaden had his. How different was witch magic to demon magic? But that was a question for another time, when Jack wasn’t quite so horny.

“Not always, but I like to know I’m doing what a lover wants. I like to please the person in my bed. If someone gives me the gift of their body, I want to make sure they know I appreciate it, even a quick and dirty fumble outside a club with someone I’ll never see again. People deserve respect. And it gets me off to give pleasure to others as well as receive it.”

“Well, I promise to tell you if I’m not enjoying myself, but I can honestly say you’ve done nothing but make me feel good.” Jack pulled down on Aaden’s hair so he could kiss his shoulder, using just a hint of teeth. Aaden moaned and rolled his hips.

“I should have known you were going to be trouble the moment I saw you. No, the moment I heard you yell into my dimension. I’m glad I was the one to answer your call. You ever need to make a deal again, just summon me,” Aaden told him.

“Hopefully no more deals like that will be needed, not the supernatural kind, but I can think of a few deals we can make just between us.” Jack grinned, running his hand through Aaden’s hair. It was silky and warm, and Jack just wanted to feel it over every inch of his skin.

“Oh, what kind of deals?” Aaden leaned into Jack’s touch the way a cat would.

“Sexy deals. Like while you’re here, we can have some fun. Like you said, teach me magic I can use here with you. Teach me what you like.” Jack ran his hands down the column of Aaden’s neck and over his shoulders and his broad back, feeling some of those raised brands. He wanted to know more about angels’ deals, why they inflicted pain, what was holy about that? But that was another question that could wait to be answered.

“I can show you what I like, and I can teach you magic. You’re gifted. Let me show you something you’ll be able to learn to do.” Aaden trailed his nails over Jack’s chest, between his nipples, drawing symbols. A glow came from his fingers, and warmth, and Jack felt supercharged pleasure on his skin, in his nipples, and all the way down to his cock. He was breathless, like he was being touched everywhere at once.

“Holy shit,” Jack gasped.

“Nothing holy about me,” Aaden chuckled.

“I don’t care. I’d rather worship you than any God,” Jack whispered.

“That’s blasphemy, Jack. Be careful what you say. You never know who might be listening. But don’t worry; I’ll protect you.” Aaden swirled his fingers as he spoke. The pleasure was so intense, Jack could hardly think or breathe.

“You’d protect me from God?” Jack was surprised. He couldn’t lie to himself that he was quickly growing attached to Aaden, but he hadn’t thought Aaden would go out on such a line for him. Maybe he wasn’t giving Aaden enough credit.

“God has taken enough from you. I won’t let them take more. Some people get a guardian angel, but I guess you’re stuck with a horny, morally gray demon to help you out,” Aaden said, then his hand went lower, scratching at Jack’s hips and raising welts before gripping his cock and stroking. Jack should’ve been afraid of sharp claws so close to his dick, but he wasn’t. He could see Aaden had a thing for scratching, marking, but he didn’t think Aaden would be careless with his nails.

“I’d feel weird about having an angel’s hand on my dick, like I was corrupting something. At least this way I can pretend to be innocent. It’s just the big bad demon leading me astray.” Jack arched his back as Aaden stroked him, his hand giving off a slight heat that wasn’t quite human and felt amazing.

“I’m more than happy to lead you astray, Jack Long, but somehow I feel you were on this path already, my little witch.” Aaden’s sexy voice sent shivers down Jack’s spine. The way Aaden said his full name made it sound forbidden somehow, like a dying man telling a secret.

“I think you should do your best to corrupt me anyway, even if you think I already belong in your world.” Jack grinned.

“I’ll show you some of my world, like you show me yours, but right now I want to see you begging, calling out my name, and losing control. You can still construct sentences, so I’m clearly not doing my job correctly.” Aaden twisted his wrist in a way that made Jack very glad he was lying down because he thought otherwise his knees would have given way.

“I think you’re doing a great job.” Jack arched up so he could claim another kiss.

“You haven’t felt anything yet. I have more tricks up my sleeve,” Aaden said, the claws on his other hand digging into the inside of Jack’s thigh where the skin was its most delicate and fragile, and it made blood rush in his ears. It hurt, but with Aaden’s hand stroking him so intimately, it mixed, changing the feeling into something else, not pain, not pleasure, but something stronger than either of them.

“Show me what you’ve got.” Jack hoped he wouldn’t regret daring Aaden. He wasn’t sure he could take everything in Aaden’s arsenal, but he was willing to risk a lot to see it through.

Aaden kissed him hard, so hard Jack thought he might end up with bruised lips, but he didn’t care. Bruises, scratches, they’d just be memories of his first night in Aaden’s bed. He already knew one night would never be enough to put out the flames Aaden had fanned to life in his soul. He’d never felt desire like this, he kept thinking, and he was sure the magic involved was only part of it.

“Tell me what you want tonight, little witch. I can think of a thousand things I’d like to do to your body, but I’m yours to command. How do you want to be pleasured tonight?” Aaden whispered hotly against his lips, his hand still stroking firm and a little rough. It felt amazing, but Jack didn’t want to come from Aadan’s hand alone tonight.

“I want you to fuck me,” Jack blurted out.

Aaden growled slightly. “Happy to be of service.”

He kissed Jack’s neck, his tongue and sharp teeth causing a delicious sting that Jack felt all over.

“Well, you had better get serving before I come.”

“I can always make you come with my hand, then get you hard again and fuck another orgasm out of you,” Aaden purred.

“That sounds amazing, but I’m not sure I can handle that tonight. I want the first orgasm you give me to be from you being inside of me,” Jack admitted.

“I’m more than pleased to grant your desire,” Aaden said with a wicked grin.

“Do you have lube? The scratching and stuff, I like that, but I’m not into the idea of taking a dick dry.” Jack had had intercourse when not adequately prepared before, and for him it hadn’t been as enjoyable as sex when he was stretched and lubed. He only hoped Aaden was as accommodating as he seemed in the bedroom.

“I didn’t pack any. I didn’t have this planned. Do you have any? I’d love to get you prepared if you like, just my fingers and slickness working you open till you’re begging for my cock.” Aaden nipped at Jack’s shoulder lightly.

“I have some in my room.” Jack nodded in the direction of the bedroom, feeling shaky with need and not looking forward at all to Aaden climbing off him and one of them going to get the lube.

“Where is it exactly?” Aaden asked, and Jack guessed he planned to go get it. Not feeling like walking through the house with a hard-on, Jack was okay with that.

“In my wash bag on my dresser. Condoms too,” Jack said, and he was pretty sure Aaden wasn’t the type to fight him on using a condom if he wanted one. It wasn’t like Jack wasn’t curious about how it’d feel to have Aaden fuck him without one, and he was on PrEP, but he didn’t know Aaden’s history, if demons got sexually transmitted infections. He didn’t want that talk now. He wanted to have sex with the hunky demon above him.

The hunky demon who was suddenly holding Jack’s tube of lube and strip of condoms.

“Demon magic?” Jack asked, impressed.

“We can’t summon things like this unless we know where it’s located. I just…the thought of stopping touching you even for a second was not appealing,” Aaden said, setting the condoms and lube they’d soon need on the bed beside him.

“Teach me more about that later, but now, not to be rude, but get your fingers in my ass,” Jack demanded.

“Fuck, I like it when you tell me what you want. What position do you want? I’m good with any so long as I get to be inside of you,” Aaden growled.

“I was thinking on my stomach, you behind me the first time, erm, assuming you want to do it more than once. I just like it like that. I usually have to make sure I can see a guy so they don’t try stealthing or anything, but I trust you not to pull a dick move like that,” Jack rambled.

“I’m glad you trust me, and I thought I’d made it very clear that once with you won’t be enough for me.”

“You might change your mind if I’m not good enough,” Jack said, his voice almost a whisper.

Aaden lifted a clawed hand and stroked Jack’s cheek gently, the touch so tender it made Jack’s stomach flip. He wasn’t used to that kind of thing during sex, wasn’t used to kindness from people other than his family and a few friends, full stop.

“You will always be good enough for me. I’ve wanted to touch you from the moment I saw you. But now we’re on the same page, you don’t have to worry about rejection,” Aaden said, then he kissed Jack, his hand still cupping his face. Jack felt himself melting into the bed.

“Okay, okay, no more deep thoughts or sadness, I’m with you, not my past. You talked about making me beg? I want to see that now. If you do, I’ll make you breakfast again,” Jack offered.

“It’s a deal.” Aaden smirked, and he lifted up and moved so that Jack could roll over onto his stomach, trapping his dick against the soft cotton covers. Jack got his arms comfortable after a few moments of them not feeling right, and he spread his legs when Aaden tapped his thigh with his claws lightly.

“You have a spectacular ass. Have you been told that before?” Aaden asked from behind Jack, in the valley of space between his spread legs.

“A few times. No one sounded quite so growly when they said it though,” Jack teased, then hissed as Aaden trailed his claws over the swells of Jack’s ass cheeks. It sent pleasure throbbing from his ass all the way around his body.

Jack gasped, and Aaden chuckled. It was a rich, dark sound that heated Jack’s blood. He could listen to Aaden’s throaty laugh for hours.

“Please, hurry up, I really want to feel you inside of me,” Jack groaned, his face turned to one side, Aaden’s pillow beneath him, smelling faintly of spices and something Jack could never place the same way Aaden always carried a scent he had no name for.

“Calm, little witch. I won’t let you come till you’re ready. Let me open the lube and tell me if you feel uncomfortable and need me to slow down or do something differently. You can tell me to stop any time, you have my word. A demon’s word is their bond.” Aaden trailed his claws lightly down Jack’s back, over his spine, sending shivers and sparks through Jack’s body. He was probably going to look like he’d fallen naked into a rosebush after tonight, but Jack didn’t care. He was enjoying getting the marks too much to care how they would look come morning.

“I will call down. Now finger me before I finger myself.” Jack did his best to growl, but it didn’t come as naturally to him as it did to the demon above him.

“I’d like to see that sometime,” Aaden said in a rough voice. Jack heard the tube being flicked open, then a hand on his ass spread his cheeks apart and warm fingers slick with cool lube started rubbing over his asshole. There was no sign of those sharp claws now, and Jack was grateful for that.

“Me finger myself?” Jack said, slurring the last word when Aaden pressed a long finger partway inside him.

“Never put on a show for someone?” Aaden’s cool voice did not sound unaffected as he slowly moved his finger inside Jack, stroking his inner walls and wiggling a little to help open him up.

“On webcam as a teen, but never in person,” Jack admitted. He’d never told anyone that before, not even Kim Joy, and he told them just about everything.

“Would you?” Aaden asked as he added a second finger.

“I, ah, yeah, sure. Why not? Just not now. Just put a condom on and get inside of me.” Jack demanded.

“I am inside of you.” Aaden had his fingers deep inside Jack, rubbing over nerve endings that made spots appear in his vision.

“You know what I mean,” Jack grumbled.

“Say it, Jack. Tell me what you want.” Aaden moved his fingers relentlessly, his chest hovering close to Jack’s back, close enough he could feel the heat. It was a hot Texas night, and sweat had already formed on their bodies, especially where they met. Jack liked it, liked seeing that, though a demon, Aaden wasn’t so far from human, was still affected by this the same way that Jack was.

“I want to feel your cock inside of me. I want you to fuck me till I come,” Jack gasped, and he found pleasure in speaking the words. He wasn’t used to talking a lot during sex, but it felt right with Aaden, who was kind of a friend, who would be sticking around long after the sun rose.

“Whatever my witch wants,” Aaden growled, and carefully he removed his fingers. Jack heard the rustle of the condom being opened, and he twisted his head a little to get a better view of Aaden.

Aaden looked breathtaking in the light from the window. He was on his knees between Jack’s legs to put the condom on, his pale chest and legs covered in dark swirling marks and white brands of scarred flesh. His hair was flowing around his shoulders. He looked strong and beautiful, like some kind of sex god come to life. His horns gave away that he was something other than a god, but Jack didn’t care. He wanted Aaden with a burning need so intense he’d never felt anything like it before. He thought he could come just from seeing Aaden with his hand on his own cock.

Then Aaden moved closer, one hand guiding his cock, the other first lifting Jack’s hip a little, and Jack could feel that his claws were back out. Aaden was careful not to scratch Jack with them as he parted his ass cheeks and pressed his cock to Jack’s hole. Jack arched into the touch as Aaden finally pushed inside him, the girth of his cock wider than his fingers had been, and it felt better than Jack had even hoped. It felt right, like a puzzle piece clicking into place.

“Can you take more?” Aaden asked in a whisper. His face was close to Jack’s neck, and he nipped lightly at the skin there again.

“Sure you’re a demon and not a vampire?” Jack joked.

“Remind me to tell you about Sanguis demons sometime.” Aaden didn’t seem annoyed by Jack not taking things deadly serious, and he liked that. He liked how they could laugh together, even now that Aaden was probably desperate to move. Jack had topped his fair share and knew what it felt like to be inside a tight ass.

“I will, but now give me more,” Jack demanded.

“My pleasure.” Aaden kissed Jack’s shoulder with a hint of teeth, digging his claws into Jack’s hips slightly as he pressed his cock deeper.

“Fuck me,” Jack moaned in pleasure.

“Thought I already was,” Aaden teased, and Jack had never thought he’d meet a demon, let alone one with a sense of humor.

Jack pushed up onto his knees, allowing Aaden to go deeper. He arched his back and twisted a little, wanting to get closer to Aaden. Aaden seemed to read his mind, and he was hunched over Jack in seconds, his hips still thrusting but his lips meeting Jack’s. Jack loved kissing, always had, and he especially loved kissing Aaden, because from what he’d seen, Aaden didn’t give half-assed kisses. He put his full self into kissing.

“You feel perfect,” Aaden said hotly against his lips. Aaden’s hips kept moving, didn’t miss a beat, and Jack was drowning in pleasure. His body was like a live wire. He could feel the same tingle of magic in his body that he’d felt on occasion when practicing spells. Being with Aaden was an experience like no other he’d had before.

“I’m going to come,” Jack gasped, and Aaden closed his fingers around Jack’s cock and start stroking.

“I want to feel you, Jack. Don’t hold back,” Aaden growled, thrusting in rhythmic waves, his clawed hand on Jack’s hip sending pinpricks of pleasure and pain through him.

Between Aaden inside him and Aaden’s hand on his cock, Jack was quickly reaching his peak. His arms were shaking, and he ended up slumping forward on his elbows, but Aaden followed him down. His body was everywhere around Jack, like a cage, but instead of being suffocating the way Jack often felt being closed in, it felt comforting. Jack didn’t want to explore that yet. He just wanted to enjoy the moment.

Jack came with Aaden’s name on his lips and the man inside him like a brand, hot and perfect. He found himself almost sobbing from the pleasure that rushed through him. He’d never felt such intensity with anyone. Jack all but collapsed onto the bed when Aaden removed his come-covered hand from his cock. Although Aaden offered to finish himself off, Jack shook his head. He was a little achy, and covered in scratches that stung, but he didn’t want this to end yet. He wanted to feel Aaden inside him for as long as possible.

Aaden kept moving, at first a little more gently than he had before, but Jack didn’t want that. He didn’t want Aaden holding back either.

“Aaden, stop going easy on me. Fuck me,” Jack demanded.

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

“I’ll tell you to stop if I need you to. I promise.”

“Remember, I take promises seriously,” Aaden growled.

“I know,” Jack said, arching his back and pushing back on Aaden’s cock.

They kept moving together, Aaden setting up a punishing rhythm, his hips bruising Jack’s skin, but Jack didn’t care. He’d be happy to wear more of Aaden’s marks. Aaden was panting against his neck, kissing him between breaths, his teeth closing over Jack’s earlobe in a nip, then scraping over his shoulder. All too soon, Aaden shuddered and groaned, his body spasming, and his weight almost crushed Jack into the bed.

Just as Jack was getting ready to complain, Aaden rolled off him, pulling out carefully, and Jack turned his head to watch Aaden deal with the condom before getting a packet of wet wipes out. He cleaned himself and came back to Jack. With more ease than a man his size would normally have, he rolled Jack over and cleaned him off too.

Jack was searching for words when he heard a faint meow and a scratching sound.

“I think Moon wants to come in,” Aaden said, throwing the wet wipe in the trash and heading for the door.

Aaden opened the door, and Moon meowed, louder this time, and came strolling into the room. She rubbed against Aaden’s leg as she passed him, then jumped up onto the window ledge. She curled up and promptly closed her eyes.

“Think she wants to sleep with us?” Aaden asked, coming back over to the bed and sitting on the edge.

“Um, you want me to sleep here?” Jack asked, unsure. Aaden hadn’t acted like he would be in a hurry to part, but Jack wasn’t sure what this was between them yet, if they were dating with a set break-off date, or just fucking.

“If you don’t mind sharing a bed. I prefer to share a bed with my partners, and frankly, it’d feel rude and a bit strange for you to get up and go to your bedroom now.” Aaden shrugged.

Jack pulled the thin sheet over himself. “I don’t like sleeping uncovered. Is that okay?”

“Fine with me.” Aaden nodded and laid down beside Jack, putting an arm around him. Jack was surprised at first, but then relaxed.

He was here, in his new safe home, with his demon and his cat. It felt kind of perfect. He was satisfied and sore. He was sleepy, and he rested his head against Aaden and let himself doze off.